I’ll like to try my hand at catching Catfish – what is the easiest rig to use for a beginner?

The first piece of advice that I always offer to beginning catfishers is that you’ve got to be willing to do some experimenting.  There are several rigging methods that will help you catch catfish, but you’re going to have to be willing to try a few to figure out which one works best for the conditions you’re fishing in.  For example, if you’re fishing in a lake that has a lot of plant life or undergrowth on the bottom, try “Tightlining”.  The most important thing to remember when using this technique is that you’ve got to keep the line tight or you’ll miss the strike.  To set up this rig, you’ll want to start by looping a bait holder or treble hook about 18 to 24 inches from the end of your line.  Choose a weight that is heavy enough to keep the rig still in the water.  If the current is strong, for example, you’ll need a heavier weight than if the water is clear.  Tie the weight on the end of the line. With this method, no movement of the bait is necessary.  You’ll actually want to try and make sure you hold your rod as still as possible, the bait will move on it’s own.